[stevecuss]

Its time for me to add a DAC to my system between my airport express and my rotel preamp.  I'd like to spend $250 or less and build my own DAC if possible.  I've built GR Research AV2s, modified a tube guitar amp and replaced an LCD screen in a laptop, so I don't have mad skills, but I can get by and follow instructions.

Can anyone give guidance or advice on the many kit DACS being offered through ebay out of Asia?  I'm particularly interested in trying a tube DAC, but don't want to buy one blind.  If that doesn't pan out, I'll probably shop for a used VALAB or Pacific Valve DAC

thanks and best wishes

Steve

[Danny Richie]

I guess no one knows too much about those DAC's yet.

[G.Michael]

I auditioned this one for a friend of mine:

http://cgi.ebay.com/HI-END-USB-SPDIF-PCM1798-DAC-EH-12AT7-tube-buffer_W0QQitemZ300328434152QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item45ecf839e8&_trksid=p4634.c0.m14.l1262

All I did was attach a power cord to it.  And with no cap upgrades or tube upgrades, it was pretty impressive--warm and detailed and dynamic.  My buddy then had a couple cap upgrades and a tube upgrade done, and had it installed in a conventional chassis. 

It's now the DAC he uses in his main system, and he just recently ordered another one.  Simply put, this DAC is a "giant killer."

Steve, if you don't need SPDIF, then this would be the one:

http://cgi.ebay.com/HI-END-USB-DAC-PCM1798-PCM2707-EH-12AT7-tube-buffer_W0QQitemZ300328438997QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item45ecf84cd5&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14

Same DAC but without the SPDIF add-on board.

[ttan98]

Try this site for the same kit if you are handy with the solder and the kit is far cheaper as well.

http://us.hifidiy.net/Article.asp?articleid=203

[stevecuss]

Hi Guys,

thanks - yesterday I bought the Valab DAC that was for sale on the audiocircle marketplace boards.  It was a great price and a cheap introduction to the world of DACS. 

Down the road, I might go about either building one of these DIY or trying to mod a tube buffer.  I currently run Rotel separates and am quite happy with the sound, but would love to see how a tube buffer between pre and power amp helps the sound. 

Meanwhile, I'll connect the Valab  DAC to my airport express (optical) and oppo DVD player (Coaxal).

Also, Danny's Neo2x demos are coming my way soon - can't wait to plug them in and compare them to my AV2s - then the restlessness will really kick in!